what is ppo health insurance

A PPO, or Preferred Provider Organization, is a type of health insurance plan that offers a network of healthcare providers at a certain rate. Members can use these providers for medical care and pay less if they use providers within the plan's network. PPO plans also provide some coverage for out-of-network care, but at a higher cost to the member. Unlike HMOs, PPO plans allow members to visit any provider without a referral from their primary physician. PPO plans offer flexibility but tend to be more expensive than HMO plans, with higher monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs for out-of-network care